Thousands of commuters suffered delays yesterday after 30ft of signal cable was stolen near to one of London’s busiest stations.
The theft caused significant disruption all day, mainly on First Capital Connect and Southern trains travelling to and from London Bridge.
Responding to the latest cable theft in south London, a spokesperson for the Association of Train Operating Companies (ATOC), said:
“We understand passengers’ frustration when their journey is disrupted and apologise to anyone who has been delayed as a result of cable theft.
“Train companies are working together with Network Rail to get people where they want to go as quickly and easily as possible.
“Operators and the industry as a whole are determined to crack down on cable thieves, whose actions lead to considerable disruption for passengers and cost millions of pounds, money which could otherwise be invested in improving services for passengers.
“The thieves are also putting themselves at risk of serious injury.
“Train companies are working closely with Network Rail and British Transport Police to reduce and eventually eliminate this dangerous and disruptive crime, but tougher measures are needed to help tackle it.”
